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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Source Code and Object Code?

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The main difference between source code and object code lies in their representation and how they are executed by a computer:

  • Source Code:
  1. Written by a programmer using a text editor or a visual programming tool.
  2. Composed of high-level programming language statements, such as Java, C++, or Python.
  3. Easier to read, edit, and debug.
  4. Contains human-readable comments for better understanding.
  5. Not directly executable by a machine.
  • Object Code:
  1. Generated by a compiler or other translator.
  2. Composed of low-level code, such as assembly or machine language.
  3. More secure and efficient for execution.
  4. In binary format, not human-understandable.
  5. Executable by a machine.

In summary, source code is the original, human-readable code written by a programmer, while object code is the compiled version of the source code, which is in a lower-level format and executable by a machine.

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  • What is the Difference Between Source Code and Object Code?
  • Comparative Table: Source Code vs Object Code

    • Comparative Table: Source Code vs Object Code

    Here is a table comparing the differences between source code and object code:

    Feature Source Code Object Code
    Definition Source code refers to the raw, human-readable code written by programmers when creating a software program. Object code refers to the output of the source code after going through a compiler, which is an intermediary between source code and machine code.
    Code Type High-level code (e.g., Java, C++, Python). Low-level code (e.g., machine code).
    Format Written in plain text. Translated code, in binary format.
    Generation Generated by humans (programmers). Generated by compilers or other translators.
    Understandability Human-readable and understandable. Not human-understandable, intended for computers.
    Usage Used to create software. Final product of the compilation process, executed by computers.

    In summary, source code is written in a high-level programming language and is human-readable, while object code is a translated, binary format generated by a compiler, and is not human-understandable.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.